Choosing your first adult toy is an exciting moment. For many people, it is the first time they intentionally prioritize their pleasure, curiosity, or connection with a partner. Whether you are hoping to explore new sensations, strengthen intimacy, or simply get to know your body better, the right toy can open the door to an entirely new level of enjoyment.
If you are new to this, take a breath. You are in the right place, and nothing about this needs to feel overwhelming. This guide walks you through what to consider, which toys beginners tend to love, and how to shop safely and confidently.
Questions to Ask Yourself
Before you browse online or step into a store, it helps to know what you’re actually shopping for. A little clarity goes a long way.
Who is this toy for?
- Solo play
- Couples play
- Both
Knowing your audience (you, a partner, or both) will influence everything from shape to power level.
Why do you want a toy?
Most first-time buyers are exploring for one or more of these reasons:
- Trying new sensations or types of stimulation
- Learning what you like or expanding your pleasure vocabulary
- Building stronger, more intense, or blended orgasms
- Supporting medical or post-surgical needs (ED, pelvic floor rehab, breast cancer, and more)
Your “why” becomes your compass. Once you know the outcome you want, choosing the right toy becomes much simpler.
Popular Toy Types for Beginners
There are thousands of toys on the market, but these categories tend to be beginner-friendly and are among the most commonly asked about.
Vibrators
Vibrators are the go-to starting point for a reason. They offer external or internal stimulation through vibration or air-suction (in the case of clitoral stimulators). You can find them in bullets, wands, rabbits, and more. They are designed to pleasure the clitoris, G-spot, P-spot, vulva, penis, testicles, or just about any part of the body that enjoys a little extra attention.
Most vibrators offer adjustable speeds and patterns so you can ease in gently and increase intensity as you get comfortable.
Beginner pick: Hello Glow – made by Velvet Box, exclusively for beginners (available in-store)
Dildos
Dildos are an internal, penetrative toy, often resembling an erect penis. Unlike a vibrator, many Dildos do not offer a vibration, though some do, providing a more straightforward way to explore what internal sensations you enjoy, both vaginally and anally. Dildos come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, materials, and styles, from ultra-realistic to sleek and modern, so you can find one that matches your desires.
Beginner pick: Dillio Platinum Big Hero Silicone Dildo
Anal Plugs
Anal plugs are designed for rectal insertion, offering a unique combination of fullness, pressure, and nerve stimulation. It typically features a tapered shape for easy insertion and a flared base for safety.
Many people find that pelvic muscle contractions during orgasm can make plugs feel even more intense.
Plugs are also great for prostate play, which is essential for overall prostate health, including:
- Easing symptoms of an enlarged prostate
- Creating orgasm and ejaculation, even without an erection
- Increasing sexual pleasure
- Reducing the risk of prostate cancer
Choose from many different types to customize the experience to your liking. Vibration can add an extra layer of sensation. While inflatable can be used for a more custom fit.
Beginner pick: Matrix Wavy Bling Silicone Anal Plug and Renegade Summit.
C-Rings
Also known as stamina rings or penis rings, C-rings help maintain firmer, longer-lasting erections by gently restricting blood flow. They can heighten sensation and make an orgasm last longer, benefiting both partners during penetrative play. Most are soft, stretchy, and easy to use, making them great for beginners.
Beginner pick: Playboy Bunny Buzzer
Strokers
Strokers are designed to simulate the sensation of hands, mouth, or a combination of both. While they’re often purchased for solo pleasure, they can be a fun and intimate addition to partnered play, especially during foreplay. More advanced models offer vibrations, suction, or warming features to add additional stimulation and sensations.
Beginner pick: Svakom The Robin
And don’t forget lube! A great lubricant makes every toy feel better, reduces friction, and can help ease nerves for first-time users. Our team love pjur Toy Lube because it’s formula is safe for all toys. Pick up a bottle when you visit us in-store.
Choosing Safe Materials
Because the adult toy industry isn’t regulated like other wellness categories, choosing safe materials matters. Your body deserves the good stuff.
Look for:
- Medical-grade silicone
- ABS hard plastic
- Stainless steel
- Borosilicate glass
These materials are non-porous, easy to clean, long-lasting, and hypoallergenic.
Avoid:
- Jelly
- Gel
- PVC
- Rubber
- TPE
Porous materials can trap bacteria and may contain phthalates or other chemicals you don’t want near your body.
Why Shop In-Store?
Shopping for your first toy in person can make the experience smoother, safer, and a lot less intimidating.
Here’s why guests at Velvet Box prefer it:
- Personalized guidance: Our associates (a.ka. Sexperts) are trained by a licensed sex educator and can walk you through your options based on what you want and what your body responds to. Their extensive product knowledge helps match you with the perfect toy.
- Accurate recommendations: You’re far more likely to leave with the right toy the first time.
- Hands-on understanding: Power levels, weight, texture, and shape are much easier to gauge in person.
- Vetted products: We only stock body-safe, high-quality toys so you don’t have to guess.
Buying your first adult toy is a big step in owning your pleasure. You deserve a warm, welcoming space to explore, ask questions, and feel completely at ease. When you’re ready, we’re here to guide you into something new, exciting, and all your own. Ready today? Click here to find a Velvet Box store near you.
